India is also planning to open a consulate there to oversee the developmental works it is carrying out in war-ravaged northern parts.

“This initiative on the part of the High Commission of India will facilitate the visa applicants to submit their visa applications in Jaffna and to take delivery of the passports from the India Visa Application Centre, Jaffna.”

Mr. Kantha said he hoped the Centre would encourage more people to travel more frequently to India.

New Delhi also favoured an early resumption of the ferry service between Talaimannar and Rameswaram as also between Colombo and Tuticorin, he said.